Form DS-156 is used for applying for travel to the United States for those aliens seeking non-immigrant visas. Form DS-156 requires biographical information of the applicant as well as passport number, country of passport issuance, date of issuance and date of expiration. Form DS-156 also requires information as to the applicant's employment and education. The Form DS-156 applicant must provide the address where he or she will be staying while in the United States and identify the purpose of the trip.

Form DS-156 requires the applicant to identify any family members who are permanent residents or citizens of the United States. Additional the Form DS-156 applicant must indicate whether he or she has ever been arrested or convicted of any offense or crime, even if later granted a pardon, amnesty or other similar legal action. The Form DS-156 applicant must also state whether or not whether or not he or she has ever unlawfully sold or distributed an unlawful substance or engaged in prostitution.

Form DS-156 also requires the applicant to state whether or not he or she has ever been denied admission to the United States or has been the subject of a deportation hearing.